The Dutch master has splashed out almost £100m as he looks to build a squad capable of breaking into the Premier League’s top six elite and beyond.

But he has played hardball with Barkley, issuing an ultimatum at the end of last season that he must sign a new deal or be sold.

Barkley, so far, has not responded and he did not travel to Tanzania when Everton’s pre-season schedule began, instead staying at home to continue treatment for a groin injury.

When he is fit, though, new boy Rooney believes the midfielder can help bring back the glory days to Goodison.

Rooney said: “With the ability that Ross has got, of course we all want him to be a part of what we are trying to achieve at Everton.

“He can help us get better. But the decision about his future is down to him.

Man Utd fan hugs Wayne Rooney during first appearance of second spell at Everton

WAYNE ROONEY was hugged by a pitch-invading Manchester United fan during his second debut for Everton.

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AFP

Wayne Rooney's first appearance for Everton since re-joining

“With the ability that Ross has got, of course we all want him to be a part of what we are trying to achieve at Everton”

Everton star Wayne Rooney

“I’m sure he’ll speak to the manager and do what’s right for him.”

The pair followed in a similar route into Goodison – Rooney joined as a nine-year-old and Barkley, now 23, was 11 when he began his journey of a lifetime.

But where Rooney, 31, developed and blossomed and later moved to Manchester United, Barkley has yet to perform at a consistently high level, much to the frustration of his Everton bosses – and fans.

The England striker, who scored a wondergoal on his Everton return against Gor Mahia last week, still bursts with enthusiasm about the game and believes endless days of footie in the local streets made him the player he is today.

Rooney added: “I still play in the streets but it’s more difficult now. When I was younger, we played in the streets whenever we had a ball.

“But society and the culture have changed now for young kids and it doesn’t happen so much, if it all.”

Former Manchester United skipper Rooney cannot wait to get going back in the Premier League – but he will not be demanding the armband when the season kicks off.

Rooney said: “No, Phil Jagielka is the captain and of course I respect that. That is Ronald’s decision but of course I’ll give Jags and the other players in the dressing room the stuff I have learned.

“And that’s whether I have the armband or not. I will try to help the players regardless of whether I am the captain.”